JP6825793B2 - Network element selection method and equipment - Google Patents

Description

This cancer relates to the field of wireless communication technology, particularly relates to a network element selection method and apparatus.

With the rapid development of communication technology, the 5th generation (Fifth Generation, 5G) mobile communication technology will emerge. If the location of the user equipment (User Equipment, UE) changes due to insufficient coverage of the 5G network in the early stages of network deployment, the UE session will be the 5G network and the 4th generation (Fourth Generation, 4G) network. Need to be handed over to and from.

In the prior art, as shown in FIG. 1, when a UE accesses a 4G system, the mobility management entity (MME) determines that the UE can support 4G and 5G systems. , MME selects session management function network elements co-located for the UE to establish a connection. However, in some scenarios, the UE does not need to use the services of the 5G network or does not subscribe to the services of the 5G network. In other words, UEs that support 4G and 5G systems do not have interoperability requirements. Therefore, in this case, the MME does not need to select a co-located session management function network element for the UE.

Therefore, in the above case, the network element is improperly selected, and a relatively strong load may occur on the session management function network element arranged in the same place.

Embodiments of the present application provide network element selection methods and devices that allow UEs that support 4G and 5G systems and do not have interoperability requirements to appropriately select network elements. ..

According to a first aspect, the present application provides a network element selection method, wherein the first network element in the first communication system receives a first message transmitted by a terminal device. The first message is used to request the establishment of a session, the receiving stage, and in response to the first message, the first network element in the first communication system is the first subscription. At the stage of determining the target session management function network element based on the application information and the second subscription information, the first subscription information includes the subscription information of the terminal device in the first communication system. The second subscription information includes a determination step, including subscription information for the terminal device in the second communication system.

Therefore, the first network element in the first communication system can select an appropriate network element as the target session management function network element based on the first subscription information and the second subscription information. In the prior art, terminal devices that support 4G and 5G systems and do not have interoperability requirements are compared to selecting network elements based solely on whether the terminal device supports 4G and 5G systems. , The network element can be selected appropriately, and the load of the session management function network element located in the same place can be reduced.

Optionally, the first subscription information may be subscription information corresponding to one or more data network identification information of the terminal device in the first communication system. The second subscription information may also be subscription information corresponding to one or more data network identification information of the terminal device in the second communication system. Alternatively, the first subscription information may be indication information indicating whether the terminal device subscribes to the data network identification information in the first communication system, and the second subscription information is the second. Also in the communication system of the above, it may be indication information indicating whether the terminal device subscribes to the data network identification information.

In a possible design, the stage in which the first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the first subscription information and the second subscription information is specifically a terminal. It may include the step of determining the target session management function network element based on the device performance, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information.

Therefore, the first network element in the first communication system may determine the target session management function network element with reference to the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information. ..

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an MME. If the first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information, the terminal device If the first communication system and the second communication system are supported, and both the first subscription information and the second subscription information include the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, MME. Selects the session management function network element located in the same location as the target session management network element. The network element having the session management performance of the 5G system and the session management performance of the 4G system is a session management function network element arranged in the same place.

Therefore, the MME may select co-located session management function network elements as target session management function network elements for terminal devices that have both interoperability performance and interoperability requirements.

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an MME. If the first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information, the terminal device Supporting a first communication system and a second communication system, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information, and the second subscription information is the session data network. If it does not include the subscription information corresponding to the identification information, the MME selects the session management function network element in the 4G system as the target session management network element.

Therefore, the MME has interoperability performance but no interoperability requirements (ie, the terminal device does not need to use the service of the 5G network or does not subscribe to the service of the 5G network). The session management function network element in the 4G system may be selected as the target session management network element for. In this way, since the session requirements can be satisfied, the load on the session management function network elements arranged in the same location can be reduced.

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an AMF. If the first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information, the terminal device If the first communication system and the second communication system are supported, and both the first subscription information and the second subscription information include the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, AMF. Selects the session management function network element located in the same location as the target session management network element. The network element having the session management performance of the 5G system and the session management performance of the 4G system is a session management function network element arranged in the same place.

Therefore, the AMF may select co-located session management function network elements as target session management function network elements for terminal devices that have both interoperability performance and interoperability requirements.

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an AMF. If the first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information, the terminal device Supporting a first communication system and a second communication system, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information, and the second subscription information is the session data network. If the AMF does not include the subscription information corresponding to the identification information, the AMF selects the session management function network element in the 5G system as the target session management network element.

Therefore, the AMF has interoperability performance but no interoperability requirements (ie, the terminal device does not need to use the services of the 4G network or does not subscribe to the services of the 4G network). The session management function network element in the 5G system may be selected as the target session management network element for. In this way, since the session requirements can be satisfied, the load on the session management function network elements arranged in the same location can be reduced.

In a possible design, the method is such that the first network element in the first communication system sends a second message to the target session management function network element, so that the target session management function network element is second. Further includes a step of determining and transmitting a policy control network element and a billing system based on the message of.

Optionally, the second message is to the target session management function network element, the co-located policy control network element and the co-located billing system in the first communication system, or Includes instructional information that directs the selection of policy control network elements and billing systems. If the first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is the MME, the MME uses the second message, The session management function network elements located in the same location have interoperability but no interoperability requirements (ie, the terminal device does not need to use the services of the 5G network, or the 5G network You may instruct to select policy control network elements and billing systems within the 4G system for (not subscribing to services). As a result, the load on the policy control network elements located in the same location and the load on the billing system located in the same location can be reduced. If the first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is AMF, the AMF uses the second message, The session management function network elements located in the same location have interoperability but no interoperability requirements (ie, the terminal device does not need to use the services of the 4G network, or the 4G network You may instruct to select policy control network elements and billing systems within the 5G system for (not subscribing to services). As a result, the load on the policy control network elements located in the same location and the load on the billing system located in the same location can be reduced.

According to the second aspect, the present application provides another network element selection method, in which the first network element in the first communication system receives the first message transmitted by the terminal device. The first message is a receiving stage used to request the establishment of a session, and in response to the first message, the first network element in the first communication system is a terminal device. Includes the step of determining the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal and the third subscription information of the terminal.

Therefore, the first network element in the first communication system can select an appropriate network element as the target session management function network element based on the third subscription information of the terminal. In the prior art, terminal devices that support 4G and 5G systems and do not have interoperability requirements are compared to selecting network elements based solely on whether the terminal device supports 4G and 5G systems. , The network element can be selected appropriately, and the load of the session management function network element located in the same place can be reduced.

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an MME. The third subscription information of the terminal may be indication information indicating whether the data network identification information APN corresponding to the session supports interoperability with a 5G system (or referred to as 5GC). .. Optionally, indicating whether the data network identification information APN corresponding to the session supports interoperability with a 5G system (or referred to as 5GC) is further indicated by the terminal's third subscription information. The data network identification information APN corresponding to the session includes the indication information indicating whether or not the interoperability with the DNN and the network slice identification S-NSSAI is supported. When the first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device and the third subscription information of the terminal, the terminal device determines the target session management function network element. And if the third communication system of the terminal supports the second communication system and the third subscription information of the terminal indicates that the data network identification information APN corresponding to the session supports the interoperability with the 5G system, the MME manages the target session. Includes the step of selecting the session management function network element located in the same location as the network element. The session management function network element arranged in the same location may be a network element having both the session management performance of the 4G system and the session management performance of the 5G system, for example, SMF + PGW-C. Therefore, the MME may select co-located session management function network elements as target session management function network elements for terminal devices that have both interoperability performance and interoperability requirements.

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an MME. The third subscription information of the terminal may be indication information indicating whether the data network identification information APN corresponding to the session supports interoperability with a 5G system (or referred to as 5GC). .. Optionally, indicating whether the data network identification information APN corresponding to the session supports interoperability with a 5G system (or referred to as 5GC) is further indicated by the terminal's third subscription information. The data network identification information APN corresponding to the session includes the indication information indicating whether or not the interoperability with the DNN and the network slice identification S-NSSAI is supported. When the first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device and the third subscription information of the terminal, the terminal device determines the target session management function network element. And if the second communication system is supported and the third subscription information indicates that the session data network identification information APN does not support interoperability with the 5G system, the MME will be the target session management network element. Includes the step of skipping the step of selecting the session management function network element co-located. In the step where the MME skips the step of selecting the session management function network element co-located as the target session management network element, the MME skips the step of selecting the session management function network element which is not particularly used for interoperability. Includes the step of selecting as a management network element. Thus, MMEs in 4G systems as a target session management network element for terminal devices that have interoperability but no interoperability requirements (ie, APNs that do not support interoperability with 5G). Session management features Network elements may be selected. In this way, since the session requirements can be satisfied, the load on the session management function network elements arranged in the same location can be reduced.

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an AMF. The third subscription information of the terminal may be indication information indicating whether the data network identification information DNN corresponding to the session supports interoperability with a 4G system (or referred to as EPS). .. Optionally, display whether the data network identification information DNN corresponding to the session supports interoperability with a 4G system (or referred to as EPS) is further indicated by the terminal's third subscription information. , Data network identification information DNN and network slice identification S-NSSAI are indication information indicating whether they correspond to session support interoperation with 4G (or referred to as EPS). When the first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device and the third subscription information of the terminal, the terminal device determines the target session management function network element. And a second communication system is supported, and the third subscription information of the terminal indicates that the data network identification information DNN corresponding to the session supports interoperability with a 4G system (or referred to as EPS). If the AMF comprises selecting a co-located session management function network element as the target session management network element. The session management function network element arranged in the same location may be a network element having both the session management performance of the 5G system and the session management performance of the 4G system, for example, SMF + PGW-C. Therefore, the AMF may select co-located session management function network elements as target session management function network elements for terminal devices that have both interoperability performance and interoperability requirements.

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an AMF. The third subscription information of the terminal may be indication information indicating whether the data network identification information DNN corresponding to the session supports interoperability with a 4G system (or referred to as EPS). .. Optionally, display whether the data network identification information DNN corresponding to the session supports interoperability with a 4G system (or referred to as EPS) is further indicated by the terminal's third subscription information. , Data network identification information DNN and network slice identification S-NSSAI are indication information indicating whether they correspond to session support interoperation with 4G (or referred to as EPS). When the first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device and the third subscription information of the terminal, the terminal device determines the target session management function network element. And if the second communication system is supported and the third subscription information indicates that the session data network identification information DNN does not support interoperability with the 4G system, the AMF will act as the target session management network element. Includes the step of skipping the step of selecting the session management function network element co-located. In the step where AMF skips the step of selecting the session management function network element co-located as the target session management network element, the AMF skips the step of selecting the session management function network element which is not particularly used for interoperability. Includes the step of selecting as a management network element. Thus, AMF in 5G systems as a target session management network element for terminal devices that have interoperability but no interoperability requirements (ie, DNNs that do not support interoperability with 4G). Session management features Network elements may be selected. In this way, since the session requirements can be satisfied, the load on the session management function network elements arranged in the same location can be reduced.

In a possible design, the method is such that the first network element in the first communication system sends a second message to the target session management function network element, so that the target session management function network element is second. Further includes a step of determining and transmitting a policy control network element and a billing system based on the message of.

Optionally, the second message is to the target session management function network element, the co-located policy control network element and the co-located billing system in the first communication system, or Includes instructional information that directs the selection of policy control network elements and billing systems. If the first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is the MME, the MME uses the second message, Session management function network elements located in the same location have interoperability but no interoperability requirements (ie, terminal devices do not need to use 5G network services, or 5G network services May be instructed to select policy control network elements and billing systems within the 4G system for (do not subscribe). As a result, the load on the policy control network elements located in the same location and the load on the billing system located in the same location can be reduced. If the first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is AMF, the AMF uses the second message, The session management function network elements located in the same location have interoperability but no interoperability requirements (ie, the terminal device does not need to use the services of the 4G network, or the 4G network You may instruct to select policy control network elements and billing systems within the 5G system for (not subscribing to services). As a result, the load on the policy control network elements located in the same location and the load on the billing system located in the same location can be reduced.

According to a third aspect, a network element selection device is provided, the device being a receiving unit configured to receive a first message transmitted by a terminal device, wherein the first message is: The receiving unit used to request the establishment of a session and the target session management function network element are determined based on the first subscription information and the second subscription information in response to the first message. The first subscription information includes the subscription information of the terminal device in the first communication system, and the second subscription information is the terminal in the second communication system. Includes processing units, including device subscription information.

In a possible design, the processing unit is specifically configured to determine the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information. ..

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, the device is an MME, and the processing unit is that the terminal device is the first communication system and the second communication system. Co-located as a target session management network element if it supports a communication system and both the first and second subscription information contain subscription information that corresponds to the session's data network identity. The session management function network element is specifically configured to select the session management function network element, and the network elements having the session management performance of the 5G system and the session management performance of the 4G system are arranged in the same location. Is.

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, the device is an MME, and the processing unit is that the terminal device is the first communication system and the second communication system. Supports communication systems, the first subscription information contains the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information, and the second subscription information contains the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information. If not included, it is specifically configured to select the session management function network element in the 4G system as the target session management network element.

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, the device is an AMF, and the processing unit is that the terminal device is the first communication system and the second communication system. Co-located as a target session management network element if it supports a communication system and both the first and second subscription information contain subscription information that corresponds to the data network identity of the session. The session management function network element is specifically configured to select the session management function network element, and the network elements having the session management performance of the 5G system and the session management performance of the 4G system are arranged in the same location. Is.

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, the device is an AMF, and the processing unit is that the terminal device is the first communication system and the second communication system. Supports communication systems, the first subscription information contains the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information, and the second subscription information contains the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information. If not included, it is specifically configured to select the session management function network element in the 5G system as the target session management network element.

In a possible design, the device sends a second message to the target session management network element, so that the target session management network element is based on the second message, the policy control network element and the billing system. Further includes a transmitting unit, which is configured to determine.

A fourth aspect of the present invention discloses another network element selection device, the device being a receiving unit configured to receive a first message transmitted by a terminal device, the first of which is The message is used to request the establishment of a session with the receiving unit and the target session management function network based on the performance of the terminal device and the third subscription information of the terminal in response to the first message. Includes processing units that are configured to determine the elements.

In a possible implementation example, the first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, the network element selection device is the access and mobility management function network element AMF in the 5G system, and the processing unit is The terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system, and the third subscription information of the terminal supports the data network identification information DNN corresponding to the session to support the interoperation with the 4G system. When indicated, it is specifically configured to select the session management function network element located in the same location as the target session management network element.

In a possible implementation example, the first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, the network element selection device is the access and mobility management function network element AMF in the 5G system, and the processing unit is Target if the terminal device supports a first and second communication system and the third subscription information indicates that the session's data network identification information DNN does not support interoperability with the 4G system. As the session management network element, it is specifically configured to skip selecting the session management function network element located in the same location. Specifically, in the step of skipping the step of selecting the session management function network element located in the same location as the target session management network element, the session management function network element in the 5G system is selected as the target session management network element. Including the stage to do.

In a possible implementation example, the first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, the network element selection device is a mobility management function network element MME in a 4G system, and the processing unit is a terminal. When the device supports a first communication system and a second communication system, and the third subscription information of the terminal indicates that the data network identification information APN corresponding to the session supports interoperability with a 5G system. , As the target session management network element, it is specifically configured to select the session management function network element located in the same location.

In a possible implementation example, the first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, the network element selection device is a mobility management function network element MME in a 4G system, and the processing unit is a terminal. Target session management if the device supports a first and second communication system and the third subscription information indicates that the session's data network identification information APN does not support interoperability with the 5G system. It is specifically configured to skip selecting the session management function network element located in the same location as the network element. Specifically, in the step of skipping the step of selecting the session management function network element located in the same location as the target session management network element, the session management function network element in the 4G system is selected as the target session management network element. Including the stage to do.

In a possible implementation example, the device sends a second message to the target session management function network element, so that the target session management function network element is based on the second message to the policy control network element and billing It further includes a transmission unit that is configured to determine the system.

According to a fifth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a network element selection device, which device may be the first network element in a first communication system, or the first in a first communication system. It may be a chip of a network element of. The device may include a processing unit and a transmission / reception unit. When the device is the first network element in the first communication system, the processing unit may be a processor and the transmit / receive unit may be a transmitter / receiver. The first network element in the first communication system may further include a storage unit, which storage unit may be a memory. The storage unit is configured to store instructions, the processing unit executes the instructions stored in the storage unit, and as a result, the first network element in the first communication system is the first aspect. One of the methods in the possible design of any one or the first aspect is carried out. When the device is a chip of the first network element in the first communication system, the processing unit may be a processor, and the transmission / reception unit may be an input / output interface, a pin, a circuit, or the like. The processing unit executes an instruction stored in the storage unit, and the storage unit is configured to store the instruction. The storage unit may be a storage unit of the chip (eg, a register or cache), or a storage unit (eg, read-only) located outside the chip and within a first network element in a first communication system. Memory or random access memory). As a result, the first network element in the first communication system implements the method in any one of the first aspects or the possible design of the first aspect.

According to a sixth aspect, an embodiment of the present application further provides a computer-readable storage medium, which stores a computer program. When the computer program runs on the computer, the computer is capable of performing the method in the first or second aspect.

According to a sixth aspect, embodiments of the present application further provide a computer program product that includes a program. When the computer program product runs on the computer, the computer can perform the method in the first or second aspect.

It is the schematic of the interoperability structure of the 4G system and the 5G system which concerns on embodiment of this application.

It is a schematic flowchart of the network element selection method which concerns on embodiment of this application.

It is a concrete schematic flowchart 1 of the establishment of the session connection by the UE of the 4G network which concerns on embodiment of this application.

2 is a specific schematic flowchart 2 for establishing a session connection by a UE of a 4G network according to an embodiment of the present application.

It is a concrete schematic flowchart 1 of the establishment of the session connection by the UE of the 5G network which concerns on embodiment of this application.

2 is a specific schematic flowchart 2 for establishing a session connection by a UE of a 5G network according to an embodiment of the present application.

It is a schematic structure diagram of the network element selection apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this application.

It is a schematic structure diagram of the 1st network element in the 1st communication system which concerns on embodiment of this application.

FIG. 3 is a specific schematic flowchart 3 for establishing a session connection by a UE of a 4G network according to an embodiment of the present application.

FIG. 3 is a specific schematic flowchart 3 for establishing a session connection by a UE of a 5G network according to an embodiment of the present application.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present application will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a specific application scenario according to the embodiment of the present application. It should be understood that FIG. 1 is merely an example and is not used to limit the present application.

In the interoperability structure of the 4G system and the 5G system shown in FIG. 1, the 4G network and the 5G network are the user plane function (User Plane Function, UPF) + the user plane function (Packet Data Network Gateway User Plane Function) of the packet data network gateway. , PGW-U), Session Management Function (SMF) + Protocol Data Unit Gateway Control Plane Function (Protocol Data Unit Gateway Control planet, PGW-C), Policy Control Function (PoliceFaction) Policy And the billing rule function (Police and Charging Gateway, PCRF), and the home subscriber server (Home Subscriber Network, HSS) + unified data management (Uniified Data Network, UDM) are shared. Here, "+" represents collocation, and "collocation" here means that one device has the functions of two entities. UPF is a user plane functional network element in 5G, PGW-U is a PDU gateway user plane functional network element in 4G and corresponding to UPF, and UPF + PGW-U is a user placed in the same place. Plain function It is a network element and has a user plane function of a 5G system and a user plane function of a 4G system. SMF is a session management function network element in 5G, PGW-C is a PDU gateway control plane function network element in 4G and corresponding to SMF, and SMF + PGW-C is a session arranged in the same place. Management function It is a network element and has session management performance of 5G system and session management performance of 4G system. PCF is a policy and billing rule function network element in 5G, PCRF is a policy control function network element in 4G, and online billing system (online charging system, OCS) and offline billing system (offline charging system, OFCS) are. It is a billing system network element in 4G, PCF + PCRF is a policy and billing rule function network element arranged in the same place, and has a policy and billing rule function of a 5G system, and a policy and billing rule function of a 4G system. .. The UDM is configured to manage user data in 5G, for example, the user data in 5G includes subscription information of the user in 5G. HSS corresponds to UDM and is configured to manage user data in 4G. For example, user data in 4G includes subscription information of a user in 4G. HSS + UDM is a user data management network element located in the same location. The next-generation radio access network (Next Generation Radio Access Networks, NG-RAN) of FIG. 1 is an access network device in 5G, and the evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network, E-UTRAN. Note that it is an access network device in 4G. In the interoperability structure, the MME communicates with the E-UTRAN using the Serving Gateway (SGW) and UPF + PGW-U, or using the Serving Gateway and SMF + PGW-C. In addition, the interoperability structure may further include pure 4G network elements, eg, at least one of PGW-U, PGW-C, PCRF, and HSS. Similarly, the interoperability structure may further include pure 5G network elements, eg, at least one of UPF, SMF, PCF, and UDM.

When a UE in a 5G system performs access, if the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) determines that the UE can support 4G and 5G systems, the AMF will connect the UE. It should be understood that the session management function network elements co-located to establish the are selected. In some scenarios, the UE does not need to use the services of the 4G network or does not subscribe to the services of the 4G network. That is, UEs that support 4G and 5G systems do not have to have interoperability requirements. Therefore, in this case, the AMF does not need to select the co-located session management function network element for the UE. Therefore, there is also the problem that network elements are improperly selected when the UE in a 5G system performs access. Therefore, in order to solve the problem that network elements are improperly selected, an embodiment of the present application provides a network element selection method. As shown in FIG. 2, the method includes the following steps to allow UEs that support 4G and 5G systems and do not have interoperability requirements to properly select network elements. ..

Stage 200: A first network element in a first communication system receives a first message transmitted by a terminal device, which first message is used to request the establishment of a session. The first message is used to request the establishment of a session. In a possible design, the first network element determines that the message is being used to request the establishment of a session, based on the message type or message name of the first message. For example, the first message is a PDU session establishment request or the first message is a PDU connectivity request and the first network element is based on the message name. It may be determined that the message is being used to request the establishment of a session. Alternatively, the first message is an Attach Request, and the first network element, based on the message type, requires the UE to request the establishment of a session after successful registration on the network side. You may decide.

Step 210: In response to the first message, the first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the first subscription information and the second subscription information. To do. The first subscription information includes the subscription information of the terminal device in the first communication system, and the second subscription information includes the subscription information of the terminal device in the second communication system. In a possible design, the first subscription information may be the subscription information corresponding to one or more data network identification information of the terminal device in the first communication system. The second subscription information may also be subscription information corresponding to one or more data network identification information of the terminal device in the second communication system. In another possible design, the first subscription information may be the indication information indicating whether the terminal device subscribes to the data network identification information in the first communication system, and the second subscription information. The information may also be indication information indicating whether the terminal device subscribes to the data network identification information in the second communication system.

The first network element in the first communication system needs to acquire the first subscription information and the second subscription information. In a possible design, prior to step 200, the first network element in the first communication system sends a third message to a co-located user data management network element, which third message is , Used to obtain the first subscription information and the second subscription information. The first network element in the first communication system stores the first subscription information and the second subscription information. Alternatively, the first network element in the first communication system individually queries the user data management network element in the first communication system for the first subscription information, and causes the user data management network element in the second communication system. Inquire about the second subscription information. Therefore, the first network element in the first communication system may store the first subscription information and the second subscription information in advance. In another possible design, after step 200 and before step 210, the first network element in the first communication system sends a fourth message to the co-located user data management network element. However, the fourth message is used to inquire about the first subscription information and the second subscription information. Alternatively, the first network element in the first communication system individually queries the user data management network element in the first communication system for the first subscription information, and causes the user data management network element in the second communication system. Inquire about the second subscription information. Therefore, the first network element in the first communication system may query the first subscription information and the second subscription information in real time. It should be understood that the co-located user data management network element may be the HSS + UDM shown in FIG. In addition, before acquiring the first subscription information and the second subscription information, the first network element in the first communication system further determines the data network identification information for the current session, and then As the first subscription information, the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the terminal device in the first communication system is acquired, and as the second subscription information, the data network identification information is supported and the second The subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information about the terminal device in the communication system of the above may be acquired.

It should be understood that the order in which the first network element in the first communication system acquires the first subscription information and the second subscription information is not limited in the present application. In other words, the first network element may acquire the first subscription information and the second subscription information at the same time, or acquire the first subscription information first and then the second subscription. You may get the subscription information. In a possible design, the first network element in the first communication system first acquires the first subscription information. Then, if it is determined that the first subscription information exists, the first network element then acquires the second subscription information. Alternatively, if it is determined that the first subscription information does not exist, the first network element rejects the current session establishment request and optionally does not acquire the second subscription information.

In a possible implementation of step 210, the first network element in the first communication system is the target session management function network based on the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information. The element may be determined. Optionally, prior to step 200, the first network element in the first communication system receives a non-access layer (Non Access System, NAS) message transmitted by the terminal device, and the NAS message is a terminal. Transport device performance information. Alternatively, the first message carries performance information of the terminal device. For example, the performance information of the terminal device includes information about whether the terminal device supports the first communication system and information about whether the terminal device supports the second communication system. Alternatively, the performance information of the terminal device includes indication information indicating whether the terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system. Therefore, the first network element in the first communication system may determine whether the terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system based on the performance information of the terminal device.

The specific process by which the first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information. , Explained below with reference to specific application scenarios.

Scenario 1: The first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an MME.

Scenario 1 may specifically include two possible examples.

In the first possible example, the terminal device supports a first communication system and a second communication system, and both the first subscription information and the second subscription information become the data network identification information of the session. When including the corresponding subscription information, the MME selects the co-located session management function network element, eg, SMF + PGW-C, shown in FIG. 1 as the target session management network element.

In a second possible example, the terminal device supports a first communication system and a second communication system, the first subscription information includes subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, and the first When the subscription information of 2 does not include the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, the MME is shown as a target session management network element of the session management function network element in the 4G system, for example, FIG. Select PGW-C.

In the two possible examples described above, the MME needs to use two decision steps to determine the target session management network element. The order in which the two decision steps are performed is not limited herein.

One decision stage is the step of determining whether the terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system. Specifically, the MME may determine that the terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system based on the performance information of the terminal device.

The other determination step is to determine whether both the first subscription information and the second subscription information include the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information.

First, the MME needs to determine the data network identity for the session. When the first communication system is a 4G system and the second communication system is a 5G system, the data network identification information of the session is the access point name (APN). The specific APN determination method is not limited in the present application. In a possible design, the first message carries the session data network identification information, and the MME may determine the session data network identification information based on the first message. In another possible design, the first message does not carry data network identification information and the MME may determine an APN, eg, a default APN, or is configured based on local policy, local configuration, etc. The APN may be determined for the session. The following method of determining the data network identification information of a session by MME is consistent with the method here. The duplicated content will not be explained again.

In the first implementation example, the MME determines or acquires the first subscription information and the second subscription information based on the determined APN. In this case, the first subscription information may be the subscription information of the APN of the terminal device in the 4G system, or the indication information indicating whether the terminal device subscribes to the APN. The second subscription information is the subscription information of the data network name (Data Network Name, DNN) corresponding to the APN and related to the terminal device in the 5G system, or whether the terminal device subscribes to the DNN. It may be the indication information indicating, and the APN corresponds to the DNN. Alternatively, the second subscription information is APN-compatible and DNN + single network slice selection support information (Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information, S-NSSAI) subscription information for the terminal device in the 5G system. Alternatively, it may be indication information indicating whether the terminal device subscribes to DNN + S-NSSAI and whether the APN corresponds to DNN + S-NSSAI. Specifically, in the case of the first possibility, the method in which the MME determines that both the first subscription information and the second subscription information include the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session. Is as follows. The terminal device has the APN subscription information in the 4G system, and the terminal device has the DNN subscription information corresponding to the APN and in the 5G system, or the terminal has the APN subscription information in the 4G system. The terminal device has the subscription information of DNN + S-NSSAI which the device has, corresponds to the APN, and is in the 5G system. In the second possibility, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identity and the second subscription information corresponds to the session data network identity. The method by which the MME determines that the information is not included is as follows. The terminal device has the APN subscription information in the 4G system, and the terminal device does not have the DNN subscription information corresponding to the APN and in the 5G system, or the APN subscription in the 4G system. The terminal device has the information, and the terminal device does not have the subscription information of DNN + S-NSSAI corresponding to the APN and in the 5G system. It should be noted that the DNN + S-NSSAI subscription information in the present application is the subscription information having the granularity of DNN plus S-NSSAI. The following DNN + S-NSSAI subscription information has the same meaning as the DNN + S-NSSAI subscription information here. The duplicated content will not be explained again.

In the second possible implementation, the MME first acquires all subscription information for the terminal device in the 4G system and all subscription information for the terminal device in the 5G system. In this case, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to each APN to which the terminal device subscribes in the 4G system, and the second subscription information includes the subscription information subscribed to by the terminal device in the 5G system. The subscription information corresponding to each DNN is included, or the second subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to each DNN + S-NSSAI to which the terminal device subscribes in the 5G system. Specifically, in the case of the first possibility, the method in which the MME determines that both the first subscription information and the second subscription information include the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session. Is as follows. The first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the APN, the second subscription information includes the subscription information of the DNN corresponding to the APN, or the first subscription information corresponds to the APN. The MME determines that the second subscription information includes the APN-corresponding DNN + S-NSSAI subscription information, including the subscription information. In the second possibility, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information, and the second subscription information contains the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information. The method by which MME determines that it is not included is as follows. The MME determines that the first subscription information contains the subscription information corresponding to the APN and the second subscription information does not include the subscription information of the DNN corresponding to the APN, or the first subscription The MME determines that the information includes the subscription information corresponding to the APN and the second subscription information does not include the DNN + S-NSSAI subscription information corresponding to the APN.

In the third possible implementation example, the MME first acquires all subscription information of the terminal device in the 4G system, and the first subscription information is each APN to which the terminal device subscribes in the 4G system. Contains subscription information corresponding to. The MME then determines or acquires a second subscription information based on the determined APN, which is the APN-enabled and DNN subscription information for the terminal device in the 5G system. Or it may be indication information indicating whether the terminal device subscribes to the DNN. Alternatively, the second subscription information indicates whether the APN-compatible and 5G system terminal device is DNN + S-NSSAI subscription information, or whether the terminal device subscribes to DNN + S-NSSAI. It may be indication information. Specifically, in the case of the first possibility, the method in which the MME determines that both the first subscription information and the second subscription information include the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session. Is as follows. The first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the APN, and the terminal device has the subscription information of the DNN corresponding to the APN and in the 5G system, or the first subscription information is the APN. The terminal device has the subscription information of DNN + S-NSSAI corresponding to APN and in the 5G system, including the subscription information corresponding to. In the second possibility, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information, and the second subscription information contains the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information. The method by which MME determines that it is not included is as follows. The first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the APN, and the terminal device does not have the subscription information of the DNN corresponding to the APN and in the 5G system, or the first subscription. The information includes subscription information corresponding to APN, and the terminal device does not have subscription information of DNN + S-NSSAI corresponding to APN and in the 5G system.

The subscription information corresponding to all APNs included in the first subscription information does not have a one-to-one correspondence with the DNN subscription information in the second subscription information, but only some APNs. Please understand that the subscription information of is in a one-to-one correspondence with the subscription information of DNN in the 5G system. Similarly, the subscription information corresponding to all APNs included in the first subscription information does not have a one-to-one correspondence with the DNN + S-NSSAI subscription information in the second subscription information. The subscription information of only some APNs has a one-to-one correspondence with the subscription information of DNN + S-NSSAI in the 5G system.

In a fourth possible implementation, if the terminal device supports a first communication system and a second communication system, after the MME determines the APN, the MME is a co-located user data management network element. The fifth message is sent to, and the fifth message is used to inquire whether the subscription information corresponding to the DNN corresponding to the APN exists in the subscription information corresponding to the APN. The MME receives query results sent by user data management network elements co-located. If the query result indicates that the subscription information corresponding to the DNN corresponding to the APN exists in the subscription information corresponding to the APN, the MME selects the session management function network element located in the same location. If the query result indicates that the subscription information corresponding to the APN corresponds to the DNN does not exist in the subscription information corresponding to the APN, the MME selects the session management function network element in the 4G system. Alternatively, if the terminal device supports a first communication system and a second communication system, the MME sends a fifth message to a co-located user data management network element after the MME determines the APN. Then, the fifth message is used to inquire whether the subscription information corresponding to DNN + S-NSSAI corresponding to APN exists in the subscription information corresponding to APN. The MME receives query results sent by user data management network elements co-located. If the query result indicates that the APN-corresponding DNN + S-NSSAI-corresponding subscription information exists in the APN-corresponding subscription information, the MME selects the session management function network element located in the same location. To do. If the query result indicates that the subscription information corresponding to the APN + S-NSSAI does not exist in the subscription information corresponding to the APN, the MME selects the session management function network element in the 4G system.

In a fifth possible implementation, the MME sends a sixth message to co-located user data management network elements, which acquires the mapping relationship between the APN and the DNN. The mapping relationship is used to indicate that the APN subscription information corresponds to the DNN subscription information. The MME receives the mapping relationships transmitted by the user data management network elements located at the same location and stores the mapping relationships. For example, the MME may send a sixth message to a co-located user data management network element before receiving the first message sent by the terminal device, or the MME may send a sixth message to the terminal device. After receiving the first message sent by, the sixth message may be sent to a user data management network element located at the same location. After determining the APN, the MME queries the mapping relationship based on the APN. If the mapping relationship indicates that the APN corresponds to the DNN, the MME selects the session management function network element co-located. If the mapping relationship indicates that the APN does not correspond to the DNN, the MME selects the session management function network element in the 4G system. Similarly, the design described above is also applicable when the APN corresponds to DNN and S-NSSAI. Details are not explained here.

For example, the terminal device subscribes to three APNs in a 4G system including APN1, APN2, and APN3 and four DNNs in a 5G system including DNN1, DNN2, DNN3, and DNN4. APN1 corresponds to DNN2 and APN3 corresponds to DNN3. Thus, the mapping relationship includes a mapping relationship between APN1 and DNN2 and a mapping relationship between APN3 and DNN3. When the MME determines the APN2, the MME queries the mapping relationship based on the APN2 and determines that the APN2 does not correspond to the DNN, and the MME selects the session management function network element in the 4G system. When the MME determines the APN3, the MME queries the mapping relationship based on the APN3, determines that the DNN corresponding to the APN4 is the DNN3, and the MME selects the session management function network element co-located. ..

Therefore, in the possible implementations described above, the MME selects the co-located session management function network element as the target session management function network element for terminal devices that have both interoperability performance and interoperability requirements. You can do it. MMEs are for terminal devices that have interoperability but no interoperability requirements (ie, the terminal device does not need to use the services of the 5G network or subscribe to the services of the 5G network). As the target session management network element of, the session management function network element in the 4G system may be selected. In this way, since the session requirements can be satisfied, the load on the session management function network elements arranged in the same location can be reduced.

Scenario 2: The first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an AMF.

Scenario 2 may specifically include two possible examples.

In the first possible example, the terminal device supports a first communication system and a second communication system, and both the first subscription information and the second subscription information become the data network identification information of the session. When including the corresponding subscription information, the AMF selects a co-located session management function network element, eg, SMF + PGW-C, as shown in FIG. 1 as the target session management network element.

In a second possible example, the terminal device supports a first communication system and a second communication system, the first subscription information includes subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, and the first If the subscription information in 2 does not include the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, AMF selects the session management function network element in the 5G system as the target session management network element, and the session in the 5G system. The management function network element is SMF.

Similar to Scenario 1, in the two possible examples described above, the AMF needs to use two decision steps to determine the target session management network element. The order in which the two decision steps are performed is not limited.

One decision step determines whether the terminal device supports a first communication system and a second communication system. Specifically, the AMF may determine that the terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system based on the performance information of the terminal device.

The other determination step is for the AMF to determine whether both the first and second subscription information include the subscription information that corresponds to the session's data network identification information.

First, the AMF determines the data network identification information for the current session session. If the first communication system is a 5G system and the second communication system is a 4G system, the data network identification information for the session is either DNN or DNN and S-NSSAI. The specific DNN determination method, or the specific method for determining DNN and S-NSSAI, is not limited in the present application. In a possible design, the first message carries the session data network identification information, and the AMF may determine the session data network identification information based on the first message. In another possible design, the first message does not carry the data network identification information and the AMF determines the DNN, or DNN and S-NSSAI, eg, the default DNN, or the default DNN and S-NSSAI. Well, or based on local policy, local configuration, etc., the configured DNN, or configured DNN and S-NSSAI, may be determined for the session. The following method by which AMF determines the data network identification information for a session is consistent with the method here. The duplicated content will not be explained again.

In the first implementation example, the AMF determines or acquires the first subscription information and the second subscription information based on the determined DNN. In this case, the first subscription information may be the DNN subscription information of the terminal device in the 5G system, or the indication information indicating whether the terminal device subscribes to the DNN. The second subscription information corresponds to the DNN and is the APN subscription information regarding the terminal device in the 4G system, and the APN corresponds to the DNN, or the second subscription information corresponds to the DNN and S-. Is the APN corresponding to NSSAI and the subscription information about the APN of the terminal device in the 4G system, and the APN corresponds to DNN + S-NSSAI, or the second subscription information is whether the terminal device subscribes to the APN. It may be the indication information indicating. Specifically, in the case of the first possibility, the method in which the AMF determines that both the first subscription information and the second subscription information include the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session. Is as follows. The terminal device has the DNN subscription information in the 5G system, and the terminal device has the APN subscription information corresponding to the DNN and in the 4G system, or the DNN + S-NSSAI subscription information in the 5G system. The terminal device has APN subscription information corresponding to DNN + S-NSSAI and in the 4G system. In the second possibility, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information, and the second subscription information corresponds to the session data network identification information. The method by which AMF determines that information is not included is as follows. The terminal device has the DNN subscription information in the 5G system, and the terminal device does not have the APN subscription information corresponding to the DNN and is in the 4G system, or the DNN + S-NSSAI in the 5G system. The terminal device has the subscription information, and the terminal device does not have the subscription information of the APN corresponding to DNN + S-NSSAI and in the 4G system.

In the second possible implementation, the AMF first acquires all subscription information for terminal devices in a 4G system and all subscription information for terminal devices in a 5G system. In this case, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to each DNN to which the terminal device subscribes in the 5G system, or the first subscription information is the terminal device in the 5G system. Includes subscription information corresponding to each subscribed DNN + S-NSSAI. The second subscription information includes subscription information for each APN to which the terminal device subscribes in the 4G system. Specifically, in the case of the first possibility, the method in which the AMF determines that both the first subscription information and the second subscription information include the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session. Is as follows. AMF determines that the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the DNN and the second subscription information includes the subscription information of the APN corresponding to the DNN. Alternatively, the AMF determines that the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to DNN + S-NSSAI and the second subscription information includes the subscription information of the APN corresponding to DNN + S-NSSAI. In the second possibility, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information, and the second subscription information contains the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information. The method by which AMF determines that it is not included is as follows. AMF determines that the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the DNN and the second subscription information does not include the subscription information of the APN corresponding to the DNN. Alternatively, AMF determines that the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to DNN + S-NSSAI and the second subscription information does not include the subscription information of the APN corresponding to DNN + S-NSSAI.

In a third possible implementation, the AMF first acquires all subscription information for the terminal device in the 5G system, and the first subscription information is for each DNN to which the terminal device subscribes in the 5G system. The first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to, or the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to each DNN + S-NSSAI to which the terminal device subscribes in the 5G system. The AMF determines or obtains a second subscription information based on the determined DNN or the determined DNN + S-NSSA, and the second subscription information corresponds to the DNN, or DNN + S-NSSA, and It may be APN subscription information about the terminal device in the 4G system, or it may be indication information indicating whether the terminal device subscribes to the APN. Specifically, in the case of the first possibility, the method in which the AMF determines that both the first subscription information and the second subscription information include the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session. Is as follows. The first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to DNN, and the terminal device has the subscription information of APN corresponding to DNN and in the 4G system, or the first subscription information is DNN + S. The terminal device has APN subscription information that includes -NSSAI-corresponding subscription information, DNN + S-NSSAI-corresponding, and is in a 4G system. In the second possibility, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information, and the second subscription information contains the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information. The method by which AMF determines that it is not included is as follows. The first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the DNN, and the terminal device does not have the subscription information of the APN corresponding to the DNN and is in the 4G system, or the first subscription. The information includes subscription information corresponding to DNN + S-NSSAI, and the terminal device does not have subscription information of APN corresponding to DNN + S-NSSAI and in the 4G system.

The subscription information corresponding to all DNNs included in the first subscription information does not have a one-to-one correspondence with the APN subscription information in the second subscription information, but only some DNNs. It should be understood that the subscription information of APN has a one-to-one correspondence with the subscription information of APN in the 4G system. Similarly, the subscription information corresponding to all DNN + S-NSSAI included in the first subscription information does not have a one-to-one correspondence with the APN subscription information in the second subscription information. Some DNN + S-NSSAI-only subscription information has a one-to-one correspondence with APN subscription information in 4G systems.

In a fourth possible implementation, if the terminal device supports a first communication system and a second communication system, after the AMF determines the DNN, the AMF is a co-located user data management network element. The seventh message is sent to, and the seventh message is used to inquire whether the subscription information corresponding to the APN corresponding to the DNN exists in the subscription information corresponding to the DNN. The AMF receives query results sent by user data management network elements co-located. If the query result indicates that it has determined that the subscription information corresponding to the APN corresponding to the DNN exists, the AMF selects the session management function network element co-located. If the query result indicates that the subscription information corresponding to the APN corresponding to the DNN does not exist in the subscription information corresponding to the DNN, the AMF selects the session management function network element in the 5G system. Alternatively, if the terminal device supports a first communication system and a second communication system, after the AMF determines DNN + S-NSSAI, the AMF sends a seventh message to a co-located user data management network element. Is sent, and the seventh message is used to inquire whether the APN subscription information corresponding to DNN + S-NSSAI exists in the subscription information corresponding to DNN + S-NSSAI. The AMF receives query results sent by user data management network elements co-located. If the query result indicates that the subscription information corresponding to the APN corresponding to DNN + S-NSSAI is determined, the AMF selects the session management function network element co-located. If the query result indicates that the subscription information corresponding to the APN corresponding to DNN + S-NSSAI does not exist in the subscription information corresponding to DNN + S-NSSAI, the AMF selects the session management function network element in the 5G system. ..

In a fifth possible implementation, if the terminal device supports a first communication system and a second communication system, the AMF sends an eighth message to co-located user data management network elements. The eighth message is used to obtain the mapping relationship between the DNN and the APN, and the AMF receives the mapping relationship transmitted by the user data management network element located in the same location, and the mapping relationship. Remember. For example, the AMF may send an eighth message to a co-located user data management network element before receiving the first message sent by the terminal device, or the AMF may send the eighth message to the terminal device. After receiving the first message sent by, the eighth message may be sent to a user data management network element located at the same location. After determining the DNN, the AMF queries the mapping relationship based on the DNN. If the mapping relationship indicates that the DNN corresponds to the APN, the AMF selects the session management function network element co-located. If the mapping relationship indicates that the DNN does not correspond to the APN, the AMF selects the session management function network element in the 5G system. Similarly, the design described above is also applicable when DNN + S-NSSAI corresponds to APN and S-NSSAI. Details are not explained here.

For example, the terminal device subscribes to three APNs in a 4G system including APN1, APN2, and APN3 and four DNNs in a 5G system including DNN1, DNN2, DNN3, and DNN4. APN1 corresponds to DNN2 and APN3 corresponds to DNN3. Thus, the mapping relationship includes a mapping relationship between APN1 and DNN2 and a mapping relationship between APN3 and DNN3. When the AMF determines the DNN2, the AMF queries the mapping relationship based on the DNN2, determines that the APN corresponding to the DNN2 is the APN1, and the AMF selects the session management function network element co-located. .. When the AMF determines the DNN1, the AMF queries the mapping relationship based on the DNN1 and determines that the DNN1 does not correspond to the APN, and the AMF selects the session management function network element in the 5G system.

Therefore, in the possible implementations described above, AMF selects co-located session management function network elements as target session management function network elements for terminal devices that have both interoperability performance and interoperability requirements. You can do it. AMF is for terminal devices that have interoperability but no interoperability requirements (ie, the terminal device does not need to use the services of the 4G network or does not subscribe to the services of the 4G network). As the target session management network element of, the session management function network element in the 5G system may be selected. In this way, since the session requirements can be satisfied, the load on the session management function network elements arranged in the same location can be reduced.

In addition, the first network element in the first communication system further determines the second message based on the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information, and the target session. A second message may be sent to the management function network element. As a result, the target session management function network element determines the policy control network element and the billing system based on the second message. The second message is to the target session management function network element, the policy control network element located in the same location and the billing system or the policy control network element located in the same location in the first communication system. Includes instructional information that instructs you to select a billing system.

Scenario 1 and Scenario 2 are individually and specifically described below.

Scenario 1: The first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an MME.

If the terminal device supports a first communication system and a second communication system, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, and the second subscription information is The MME selects the co-located session management function network element without including the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identification information, and the MME is the second co-located session management function network element. Send a message. As a result, the session management function network element arranged in the same place determines that the policy control network element and the billing system are the policy control network element and the billing system in the 4G system based on the second message. The second message includes instruction information instructing a co-located session management function network element to select a policy control network element and a billing system within the 4G system. Therefore, using the second message, the MME uses the second message to use a terminal device (in other words, the terminal device is 5G) that has interoperability performance but no interoperability requirement in the session management function network element arranged in the same place. You may be instructed to select policy control network elements and billing systems within the 4G system because you do not need to use the services of the network or subscribe to the services of the 5G network. As a result, the load on the policy control network elements located in the same location and the load on the billing system located in the same location can be reduced.

For example, in possible networking, all PGW-Cs are upgraded to SMF + PGW-C, but policy control network elements and billing system network elements are not. In other words, the policy control network element in 4G may be PCRF, and the billing system network element in 4G may be OCS and OFC. In this case, even if the MME selects SMF + PGW-C, the SMF + PGW-C is not aware that the UE currently does not have interoperability requirements, in other words, the UE does not access the 5G system. Therefore, the MME may send a second message to SMF + PGW-C, which will send a second message to SMF + PGW-C to select and access policy control network elements and billing systems within 4G. Includes command information to command.

Normally, when the MME selects the session management function network element in 4G, the session management function network element in 4G selects the policy control network element and the billing system in 4G, and the session management function in which the MME is arranged in the same place. When selecting a network element, it should be understood that the session management function network element located in the same location selects the policy control network element located in the same location and the billing system located in the same location. However, according to the method provided in this embodiment of the present application, the MME instructs co-located session management function network elements to select policy control network elements and billing systems within the 4G system. You can. As a result, the load on the policy control network elements located in the same location and the load on the billing system located in the same location can be reduced.

Scenario 2: The first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an AMF.

If the terminal device supports a first communication system and a second communication system, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, and the second subscription information is Does not include the subscription information corresponding to the session data network identity, the AMF selects the co-located session management network element, and the AMF has a second co-located session management network element. Send a message. As a result, the session management function network element arranged in the same place determines that the policy control network element and the billing system are the policy control network element and the billing system in the 5G system based on the second message. The second message includes instruction information instructing a co-located session management function network element to select a policy control network element and a billing system within the 5G system. Therefore, using the second message, the AMF uses a second message to use a terminal device (in other words, the terminal device is 4G) that has interoperability performance but no interoperability requirement in the session management function network element arranged in the same place. You may be instructed to select policy control network elements and billing systems within the 5G system because you do not need to use the services of the network or subscribe to the services of the 4G network. As a result, the load on the policy control network elements located in the same location and the load on the billing system located in the same location can be reduced.

For example, in possible networking, the deployment of pure SMF devices has not started. In other words, all SMF + PGW-C are acquired by PGW-C upgrade, but policy control network elements and network elements related to billing system are not upgraded. Therefore, AMF can select only SMF + PGW-C. The AMF may send a second message to SMF + PGW-C, the second message to select and access policy control network elements and billing systems, such as PCF, within 5G. Includes command information to command C.

Normally, when AMF selects the session management function network element in 5G, the session management function network element in 5G selects the policy control network element and the billing system in 5G, and the session management function in which the AMF is arranged in the same place. When selecting a network element, it should be understood that the session management function network element located in the same location selects the policy control network element located in the same location and the billing system located in the same location. However, according to the method provided in this embodiment of the present application, the AMF instructs co-located session management function network elements to select policy control network elements and billing systems within a 5G system. You can. As a result, the load on the policy control network elements located in the same location and the load on the billing system located in the same location can be reduced.

The network element selection process in this embodiment of the present application will be specifically described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 3 shows a specific process 1 in which the UE establishes a session connection in a 4G network.

Step 301: MME acquires UE performance information. In a possible design, in an Attach procedure or a Track area update (TAU) procedure, the UE sends a NAS message to the MME. The NAS message carries UE performance information (UE performance), and the UE performance includes information about whether the UE supports a 4G system, information about whether the UE supports a 5G system, and the like, or UE performance. The information includes indication information indicating whether the UE supports both 4G and 5G systems. The MME stores UE performance information.

Step 302: The UE may send a session request message to the MME and the session request message may be included in the attach request. The session request message may be a NAS message.

Step 303: MME determines the APN. In a possible design, the session request message carries the APN. In another possible design, the session request message does not carry the APN and the MME may determine the APN, eg the default APN.

Step 304: The MME determines the target session management function network element based on the UE performance information, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information. If the terminal device supports 4G and 5G systems and both the first and second subscription information include the subscription information corresponding to the APN, the MME performs step 305a. If the terminal device supports 4G and 5G systems, the first subscription information contains the subscription information corresponding to the APN, and the second subscription information does not include the subscription information corresponding to the APN, MME Performs step 305b. For a specific process in which the MME determines the target session management function network element based on the UE performance information, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information, refer to the possible implementation example in Scenario 1. Please understand that it is good. The repeated content will not be explained again.

In a possible design, prior to step 302, for example in the attach procedure or TAU procedure, the MME sends a third message to HSS + UDM, where the third message is the first subscription information and the second subscription information. Is used to obtain. The MME stores the first subscription information and the second subscription information. In another possible design, after step 303, the MME sends a fourth message to HSS + UDM, the fourth message being used to query the first and second subscription information.

Step 305a: The MME selects SMF + PGW-C as the target session management network element and sends a session request message to SMF + PGW-C.

Step 305b: The MME selects PGW-C as the target session management network element and sends a session request message to PGW-C.

Subsequent session establishment procedures mainly include configuring radio resources, establishing user plane tunnels, and so on. For details, refer to the prior art.

FIG. 4 shows a specific process 2 in which the UE establishes a session connection in a 4G network. All PGW-Cs are upgraded to SMF + PGW-C, but policy control network elements and network elements related to billing systems are not upgraded. The policy control network element in 4G is PCRF, the billing system network element in 4G is OCS and OFCS, and the policy control network element and billing system in 5G is PCF.

Steps 401 to 403 are the same as steps 301 to 303.

Step 404: The MME determines the target policy control network element and the target billing system based on the UE performance information, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information. If the terminal device supports 4G and 5G systems and both the first and second subscription information include the subscription information corresponding to the APN, the MME performs step 405a. If the terminal device supports 4G and 5G systems, the first subscription information contains the subscription information corresponding to the APN, and the second subscription information does not include the subscription information corresponding to the APN, MME Performs step 405b.

Step 405a: MME sends a session request message to SMF + PGW-C. The session request message does not have to carry the instruction information, or may carry the first instruction information. The first instruction information instructs SMF + PGW-C to select the policy control network element located in the same location and the billing system located in the same location. Therefore, the target policy control network element and the target billing system are the policy control network element arranged in the same place and the billing system arranged in the same place.

Step 405b: MME sends a session request message to SMF + PGW-C, the session request message carries the second instruction information, and the second instruction information selects the policy control network element and billing system within 4G. Instruct SMF + PGW-C to do so. Therefore, the target policy control network element and the target billing system are the policy control network element and the billing system in 4G.

FIG. 5 shows a specific process 1 in which the UE establishes a session connection in a 5G network. Only examples of DNNs corresponding to APNs are used below for illustration purposes. The processing procedure in which DNN + S-NSSAI corresponds to APN is the same. Details will not be explained here again.

Step 501: AMF acquires UE performance information. In a possible design, in a registration or re-registration procedure, the UE sends a NAS message to the AMF. The NAS message carries UE performance information (UE capabilities), and the UE performance information includes information about whether the UE supports a 4G system, information about whether the UE supports a 5G system, and the like, or the UE. The performance information includes indication information indicating whether the UE supports both 4G and 5G systems. The AMF stores UE performance information.

Step 502: The UE sends a session request message to the AMF, and the session request message is a NAS message.

Step 503: AMF determines the DNN. In a possible design, the session request message carries the DNN. In another possible design, the session request message does not carry the DNN and the AMF may determine the DNN , eg, the default DNN.

Stage 504: The AMF determines the target session management function network element based on the UE performance information, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information. If the terminal device supports 4G and 5G systems and both the first and second subscription information include the subscription information corresponding to the DNN, the AMF performs step 505a. If the terminal device supports 4G and 5G systems, the first subscription information contains the DNN-corresponding subscription information, and the second subscription information does not include the DNN-corresponding subscription information, AMF. Performs step 505b. For a specific process in which the AMF determines the target session management function network element based on the UE performance information, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information, refer to the possible implementation example in Scenario 2. Please understand that it is good. The repeated content will not be explained again.

In a possible design, prior to step 502, eg, in a registration or re-registration procedure, the AMF sends a third message to HSS + UDM, where the third message is the first subscription information and the second subscription. Used to get information. The AMF stores the first subscription information and the second subscription information. In another possible design, after step 503, the AMF sends a fourth message to HSS + UDM, the fourth message being used to query the first and second subscription information.

Step 505a: AMF selects SMF + PGW-C as the target session management network element and sends a session request message to SMF + PGW-C.

Step 505b: The AMF selects the SMF as the target session management network element and sends a session request message to the SMF.

Subsequent session establishment procedures mainly include configuring radio resources, establishing user plane tunnels, and so on. For details, refer to the prior art.

FIG. 6 shows a specific process 2 in which the UE establishes a session connection in a 5G network. Deployment of pure SMF devices has not started. In other words, all SMF + PGW-C are acquired by PGW-C upgrade, but policy control network elements and network elements related to billing system are not upgraded. For example, the policy control network element in 4G is PCRF, and the billing systems in 4G are OCS and OFCS. 5G has an independent policy control network element and an independent billing system, such as PCF.

Steps 601 to 603 are the same as steps 501 to 503.

Step 604: The AMF determines the target policy control network element and the target billing system based on the UE performance information, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information. If the terminal device supports 4G and 5G systems and both the first and second subscription information include the subscription information corresponding to the DNN, AMF performs step 605a. If the terminal device supports 4G and 5G systems, the first subscription information contains the DNN-corresponding subscription information, and the second subscription information does not include the DNN-corresponding subscription information, AMF. Performs step 605b.

Step 605a: AMF sends a session request message to SMF + PGW-C. The session request message does not have to carry the instruction information, or may carry the first instruction information. The first instruction information instructs SMF + PGW-C to select the policy control network element located in the same location and the billing system located in the same location. Therefore, the target policy control network element and the target billing system are the policy control network element arranged in the same place and the billing system arranged in the same place.

Step 605b: AMF sends a session request message to SMF + PGW-C, the session request message carries the second instruction information, and the second instruction information selects the policy control network element and billing system within 5G. And instruct SMF + PGW-C to access them. Therefore, the target policy control network element and the target billing system are the policy control network element and the billing system within 5G .

Based on the embodiments described above, embodiments of the present application provide a network element selection device. As shown in FIG. 7, device 700 is a receiving unit 701 configured to receive a first message transmitted by a terminal device, the first message requesting the establishment of a session. The receiving unit 701, which is used for the purpose, is configured to determine the target session management function network element based on the first subscription information and the second subscription information in response to the first message. In the processing unit 702, the first subscription information includes the subscription information of the terminal device in the first communication system, and the second subscription information is the subscription of the terminal device in the second communication system. Includes processing unit 702, which contains information.

In a possible design, the processing unit 702 is specifically configured to determine the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information. There is.

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, the device is an MME, and the processing unit 702 is a terminal device with a first communication system and a second. If both the first and second subscription information include the subscription information that corresponds to the session's data network identification information, then in the same location as the target session management network element. The session management function network is specifically configured to select the arranged session management function network elements, and the network elements having the session management performance of the 5G system and the session management performance of the 4G system are arranged in the same location. It is an element.

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, the device is an MME, and the processing unit 702 is a terminal device with a first communication system and a second. The first subscription information contains the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, and the second subscription information corresponds to the data network identification information of the session. If is not included, it is specifically configured to select the session management function network element in the 4G system as the target session management network element.

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, the device is an AMF, and the processing unit 702 is a terminal device with a first communication system and a second. If both the first and second subscription information include the subscription information that corresponds to the session's data network identification information, then in the same location as the target session management network element. The session management function network is specifically configured to select the arranged session management function network elements, and the network elements having the session management performance of the 5G system and the session management performance of the 4G system are arranged in the same location. It is an element.

In a possible design, the first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, the device is an AMF, and the processing unit 702 is a terminal device with a first communication system and a second. The first subscription information contains the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, and the second subscription information corresponds to the data network identification information of the session. If is not included, the target session management network element is specifically configured to select the session management function network element in the 5G system.

In a possible design, the device sends a second message to the target session management network element, so that the target session management network element is based on the second message, the policy control network element and the billing system. Further includes a transmission unit 703, which is configured to determine.

It can be understood that the specific implementation of the functional module included in the network element selection device in FIG. 7 and the corresponding advantages may be referred to the specific description of the embodiment shown in FIG. Details are not explained here.

It should be understood that the division of units is only a division of logical functions, and during the actual implementation all or some of the units may be integrated into one physical entity or may be physically separated. In addition, all of these units may be implemented in software by being called by a processing element, or all may be implemented in the form of hardware. Alternatively, some units are implemented in software by being called by a processing element, and some units are implemented in the form of hardware. During implementation, the methods described above or the steps in the units described above can be implemented using hardware integrated logic circuits in the processing elements or using instructions in the form of software.

For example, the units described above may be one or more integrated circuits for implementing the methods described above, eg, one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or one or more microprocessors (digital signals). It may be configured as a processor, DSP) or one or more field programmable gate arrays (Field Programmable Gate Array, FPGA). In another example, if one of the above-mentioned units is implemented by calling a program by a processing element, the processing element can call a central processing unit (CPU) or another program. It may be a general purpose processor such as a processor. In other examples, these units may be integrated together and are implemented in the form of a system on a chip (SoC).

In another optional variation, embodiments of the present application provide a network element selection device. An embodiment of the present application provides a network element selection device. For example, the network element selection device may be a chip, the device may include a processor and an interface, and the interface may be an input / output interface. The processor implements the function of the processing unit 702, and the interface implements the function of the receiving unit 701 and the function of the transmitting unit 703 . The device may further include memory. The memory is configured to store programs that can run on the processor. When the processor executes the program, the method of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is executed.

Based on the embodiments described above, embodiments of the present application further provide a first network element 800 in a first communication system. As shown in FIG. 8, the network element 800 includes a transmitter / receiver 801 and a processor 802, and a memory 803. The memory 803 is configured to store a computer program. The processor 802 calls the computer program stored in the memory 803 and uses the transmitter / receiver 801 to execute the method shown in FIG. The processor may be a CPU, a network processor (NP), a hardware chip, or any combination thereof. The memory may include a volatile memory, for example, a random access memory (RAM). Alternatively, the memory is non-volatile, such as read-only memory (ROM), flash memory (flash memory), hard disk drive (hard disk drive, HDD), or solid state drive (solid-state drive, SSD). A sex memory (non-volatile memory) may be included. Alternatively, the memory may include a combination of the types of memory described above.

It can be seen that the apparatus of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 can be implemented using the network element 800 shown in FIG. Specifically, the processing unit 702 can be mounted by the processor 802, and the receiving unit 701 and the transmitting unit 703 can be mounted by the transmitter / receiver 801. The structure of the network element 800 does not constitute a limitation in the embodiments of the present application.

FIG. 9 shows a specific process 1 in which the UE establishes a session connection in a 4G network.

Step 901: MME acquires UE performance information. In a possible design, in an Attach procedure or a Track area update (TAU) procedure, the UE sends a NAS message to the MME. The NAS message carries UE performance information (UE capabilities), and the UE performance information includes information about whether the UE supports a 4G system, information about whether the UE supports a 5G system, and the like, or the UE. The performance information includes indication information indicating whether the UE supports both 4G and 5G systems. The MME stores UE performance information.

Step 902: The UE may send a session request message to the MME and the session request message may be included in the attach request. The session request message may be a NAS message.

Step 903: MME determines APN. In a possible design, the session request message at stage 902 carries the APN. In another possible design, the session request message does not carry the APN and the MME may determine the APN, eg the default APN. The APN determination method is described above. Details will not be explained again.

Step 904: The MME determines the target session management function network element based on the UE performance information (or referred to as the terminal performance) and the third subscription information. Specifically, the performance of the terminal indicates that the UE supports 4G and 5G systems, and the third subscription of the terminal refers to the data network identification information APN corresponding to the session as the 5G system (or 5GC). The MME selects a co-located session management function network element as the target session management network element and performs step 905a if it indicates that it supports interoperability with. Optionally, the third subscription of the terminal also indicates that the data network identification information APN corresponding to the session supports interoperability with the 5G system (or referred to as the 5GC). The third subscription information includes that the data network identification information APN corresponding to the session is the indication information indicating that it supports the interoperability with the DNN and the network slice identification S-NSSAI. The session management function network element arranged in the same location may be a network element having both the session management performance of the 4G system and the session management performance of the 5G system, for example, SMF + PGW-C. If the performance of the terminal indicates that the UE supports 4G and 5G systems and the third subscription information indicates that the session data network identification information APN does not support interoperability with the 5G system, then the MME Does not select the co-located session management function network element as the target session management network element and executes step 905b. The fact that the MME does not select a co-located session management function network element as the target session management network element means that the MME does not specifically use the session management function network element for interoperability, such as PGW-C, or Includes the step of selecting PGW in a pure 4G system as the target session management network element. Therefore, the MME may select co-located session management function network elements as target session management function network elements for terminal devices that have both interoperability performance and interoperability requirements.

In addition, the MME may further determine a second message based on the performance of the terminal device and the third subscription information and send the second message to the target session management function network element. As a result, the target session management function network element determines the policy control network element and the billing system based on the second message. The second message is to the target session management function network element, the policy control network element located in the same location and the billing system or the policy control network element located in the same location in the first communication system. Includes instructional information that instructs you to select a billing system. For the specific process, refer to the embodiment corresponding to FIG.

Step 905a: The MME selects SMF + PGW-C as the target session management network element and sends a session request message to SMF + PGW-C.

Step 905b: The MME selects PGW-C as the target session management network element and sends a session request message to PGW-C.

Subsequent session establishment procedures mainly include configuring radio resources, establishing user plane tunnels, and so on. For details, refer to the prior art.

Therefore, MME has 4G as a target session management network element for terminal devices that have interoperability but no interoperability requirements (ie, the terminal device does not support interoperability with 5G). Session management in the system You may select network elements. In this way, since the session requirements can be satisfied, the load on the session management function network elements arranged in the same location can be reduced. Optionally, the MME will not support interoperability with terminal devices (ie, terminal devices) that have interoperability but no interoperability requirements for co-located session management network elements. ) May be ordered to select policy control network elements and billing systems within the 4G system. As a result, the load on the policy control network elements located in the same location and the load on the billing system located in the same location can be reduced.

Further, it can be understood that the above-described description of the embodiment may be referred to for the contents that are not clearly explained in the description of the embodiment corresponding to FIG.

In addition, the logical structure of the MME in FIG. 9 may be shown in FIG. 7, and the steps described in FIG. 9 may be implemented using the processing units, receiving units, and transmitting units in FIG. .. It can be seen that the apparatus of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 can be implemented using the network element 800 shown in FIG. Specifically, the processing unit 702 can be mounted by the processor 802, and the receiving unit 701 and the transmitting unit 703 can be mounted by the transmitter / receiver 801. The structure of the network element 800 does not constitute a limitation in the embodiments of the present application.

FIG. 10 shows a specific process 1 in which the UE establishes a session connection in a 5G network.

Step 1001: AMF acquires UE performance information. In a possible design, in a registration or re-registration procedure, the UE sends a NAS message to the AMF. The NAS message carries UE performance information (UE capabilities), and the UE performance information includes information about whether the UE supports a 4G system, information about whether the UE supports a 5G system, and the like, or the UE. The performance information includes indication information indicating whether the UE supports both 4G and 5G systems. The AMF stores UE performance information.

Step 1002: The UE sends a session request message to the AMF, and the session request message is a NAS message.

Step 1003: AMF determines the DNN. In a possible design, the session request message at stage 1002 carries the DNN. In another possible design, the session request message does not carry the DNN and the AMF may determine the DNN , eg, the default DNN. The DNN determination method is described above. Details will not be explained again.

Step 1004: The AMF determines the target session management function network element based on the UE performance information (or referred to as the terminal performance) and the third subscription information. Specifically, the performance of the terminal indicates that the UE supports 4G and 5G systems, and the third subscription of the terminal is the data network identification information DNN corresponding to the session in the 4G system (or EPS or EPS or If it indicates that it supports interoperability with (referred to as EPC), the AMF selects a co-located session management function network element as the target session management network element and performs step 1005a. Optionally, the third subscription of the terminal may indicate whether the data network identification information DNN corresponding to the session supports interoperability with a 4G system (also referred to as EPS or EPC). Further, the third subscription information of the terminal includes that the data network identification information DNN and the network slice identification S-NSSAI are indication information indicating that they correspond to the session support interoperation. The session management function network element arranged in the same location may be a network element having both the session management performance of the 4G system and the session management performance of the 5G system, for example, SMF + PGW-C. If the performance of the terminal indicates that the UE supports 4G and 5G systems and the third subscription information indicates that the session data network identification information DNN does not support interoperability with the 4G system, then AMF. Does not select the session management function network element co-located as the target session management network element and executes step 1005b. The fact that AMF does not select co-located session management network elements as target session management network elements means that AMF does not specifically use session management network elements for interoperability, such as in pure 5G systems. Includes the step of selecting SMF as the target session management network element. Therefore, the AMF may select co-located session management function network elements as target session management function network elements for terminal devices that have both interoperability performance and interoperability requirements.

In addition, the AMF may further determine a second message based on the performance of the terminal device and the third subscription information and send the second message to the target session management function network element. As a result, the target session management function network element determines the policy control network element and the billing system based on the second message. The second message is to the target session management function network element, the policy control network element located in the same location and the billing system or the policy control network element located in the same location in the first communication system. Includes instructional information that instructs you to select a billing system. For the specific process, refer to the embodiment corresponding to FIG.

Step 1005a: AMF selects SMF + PGW-C as the target session management network element and sends a session request message to SMF + PGW-C.

Step 1005b: AMF selects SMF as the target session management network element and sends a session request message to SMF.

Subsequent session establishment procedures mainly include configuring radio resources, establishing user plane tunnels, and so on. For details, refer to the prior art.

Therefore, AMF has 5G as a target session management network element for terminal devices that have interoperability but no interoperability requirements (ie, the terminal device does not support interoperability with 4G). Session management in the system You may select network elements. In this way, since the session requirements can be satisfied, the load on the session management function network elements arranged in the same location can be reduced. Optionally, AMF does not support interoperability with terminal devices (ie, terminal devices) that have interoperability but no interoperability requirements for co-located session management network elements. ) May be instructed to select policy control network elements and billing systems within the 5G system. As a result, the load on the policy control network elements located in the same location and the load on the billing system located in the same location can be reduced.

Further, it can be understood that the above-described description of the embodiment may be referred to for the contents that are not clearly explained in the description of the embodiment corresponding to FIG.

In addition, the logical structure of the AMF in FIG. 10 may be shown in FIG. 7, and the steps described in FIG. 10 may be implemented using the processing units, receiving units, and transmitting units in FIG. .. It can be seen that the apparatus of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 can be implemented using the network element 800 shown in FIG. Specifically, the processing unit 702 can be mounted by the processor 802, and the receiving unit 701 and the transmitting unit 703 can be mounted by the transmitter / receiver 801. The structure of the network element 800 does not constitute a limitation in the embodiments of the present application.

One embodiment of the present application further provides a computer-readable storage medium. Computer-readable storage media store computer programs. When the computer program runs on the computer, the computer is capable of performing the method of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, and the processor is capable of performing the steps corresponding to the MME shown in FIG. The processor will also be able to perform the steps corresponding to the AMF shown in FIG.

In short, in the method provided in this embodiment of the present application, a first network element in a first communication system receives a first message transmitted by a terminal device, the first message being a session establishment. Is used to request. In response to the first message, the first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the first subscription information and the second subscription information. In the prior art, terminal devices that support 4G and 5G systems and do not have interoperability requirements are compared to selecting network elements based solely on whether the terminal device supports 4G and 5G systems. , The network element can be selected appropriately, and the load of the session management function network element located in the same place can be reduced.

When the first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an MME, the MMEs are co-located session management. The functional network element may be selected as the target session management functional network element for terminal devices that have both interoperability performance and interoperability requirements. MMEs are for terminal devices that have interoperability but no interoperability requirements (ie, the terminal device does not need to use the services of the 5G network or subscribe to the services of the 5G network). As the target session management network element of, the session management function network element in the 4G system may be selected. In this way, since the session requirements can be satisfied, the load on the session management function network elements arranged in the same location can be reduced.

If the first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an AMF, the AMF is co-located session management. The functional network element may be selected as the target session management functional network element for terminal devices that have both interoperability performance and interoperability requirements. AMF is for terminal devices that have interoperability but no interoperability requirements (ie, the terminal device does not need to use the services of the 4G network or does not subscribe to the services of the 4G network). As the target session management network element of, the session management function network element in the 5G system may be selected. In this way, since the session requirements can be satisfied, the load on the session management function network elements arranged in the same location can be reduced.

If the first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is the MME, the MME uses the second message, The session management function network elements located in the same location have interoperability but no interoperability requirements (ie, the terminal device does not need to use the services of the 5G network, or the 5G network You may instruct to select policy control network elements and billing systems within the 4G system for (not subscribing to services). As a result, the load on the policy control network elements located in the same location and the load on the billing system located in the same location can be reduced. If the first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is AMF, the AMF uses the second message, The session management function network elements located in the same location have interoperability but no interoperability requirements (ie, the terminal device does not need to use the services of the 4G network, or the 4G network You may instruct to select policy control network elements and billing systems within the 5G system for (not subscribing to services). As a result, the load on the policy control network elements located in the same location and the load on the billing system located in the same location can be reduced.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that embodiments of the present application may be provided as a method, system, or computer program product. Therefore, the embodiments of the present application may be in the form of a hardware-only embodiment, a software-only embodiment, or an embodiment having a combination of software and hardware. Further, embodiments of the present application are implemented on one or more computer-enabled storage media (including, but not limited to, magnetic disk memory, CD-ROM, optical memory, etc.) containing computer-enabled program code. The format of the computer program product to be used may be used.

Embodiments of the present application are described with reference to flowcharts and / or block diagrams of methods, devices (systems) and computer program products according to the embodiments of the present application. It should be understood that computer program instructions may be used to implement each process and / or each block of the flowchart and / or block diagram and the processing and / or block combination of the flowchart and / or block diagram. .. These computer program instructions may be provided to a general purpose computer, a dedicated computer, an embedded processor, or a processor of another programmable data processing device to generate a machine, resulting in a computer or processor of another programmable data processing device. The instructions executed by generate a device to implement one or more processes of the flowchart and / or a specific function in one or more blocks in the block diagram.

These computer program instructions may be stored in computer-readable memory that can instruct a computer or another programmable data processing device to function in a particular manner. As a result, the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory generate an artifact that includes an instruction device. The command device implements a particular function in one or more processes in the flowchart and / or in one or more blocks in the block diagram.

These computer program instructions may be loaded on the computer or another programmable data processing device so that a series of actions and steps are performed on the computer or another programmable device, thereby being implemented by the computer. Process is generated. Thus, instructions executed on a computer or another programmable device provide steps for implementing a particular function in one or more processes and / or blocks in a block diagram in a flowchart.

Of course, one of ordinary skill in the art can make various modifications and modifications to the embodiments of the present application without departing from the ideas and scope of the present application. As such, the present application is intended to cover these modifications and modifications only if they are within the scope of protection defined by the following claims and their equivalent techniques.
(Item 1)
It is a network element selection method
The first network element in the first communication system is at the stage of receiving the first message transmitted by the terminal device, the first message being used to request the establishment of a session. And the stage to do
In response to the first message, the first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the first subscription information and the second subscription information. The first subscription information includes the subscription information of the terminal device in the first communication system, and the second subscription information includes the subscription information of the terminal device in the second communication system. At the decision stage, including subscription information for
A method.
(Item 2)
The step in which the first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the first subscription information and the second subscription information is
The first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information. The method according to item 1, which includes a step of performing.
(Item 3)
The method, wherein the first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is a mobility management entity MME.
The first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information. The above steps to do
The terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system, and both the first subscription information and the second subscription information correspond to the data network identification information of the session. When the subscription information is included, the MME is at the stage of selecting the session management function network element arranged in the same location as the target session management network element, and the session management performance of the 5G system and the 4G system. The method according to item 2, wherein the network element having the session management performance is the session management function network element arranged in the same location as described above, including the step of selecting.
(Item 4)
The first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an MME.
The first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information. The above steps to do
The terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, and the second When the subscription information does not include the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, the MME selects the session management function network element in the 4G system as the target session management network element. 2. The method according to item 2.
(Item 5)
The first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an access and mobility management function AMF. ,
The first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information. The above steps to do
The terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system, and both the first subscription information and the second subscription information correspond to the data network identification information of the session. When the subscription information is included, the AMF is at the stage of selecting the session management function network element arranged in the same location as the target session management network element, and the session management performance of the 5G system and the 4G system. The method according to item 2, wherein the network element having the session management performance is the session management function network element arranged in the same location as described above, including the step of selecting.
(Item 6)
The first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the first network element in the first communication system is an AMF.
The first network element in the first communication system determines the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information. The above steps to do
The terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, and the second When the subscription information does not include the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, the AMF selects the session management function network element in the 5G system as the target session management network element. 2. The method according to item 2.
(Item 7)
The first network element in the first communication system sends a second message to the target session management function network element, so that the target session management function network element is based on the second message. The stage of determining, transmitting, policy control network elements and billing system
The method according to any one of items 1 to 6, further comprising.
(Item 8)
It is a network element selection method
The first network element in the first communication system is the stage of receiving the first message transmitted by the terminal device, the first message being used to request the establishment of a session. And the stage to do
In response to the first message, the first network element in the first communication system is a target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device and the third subscription information of the terminal. A method that includes steps to determine.
(Item 9)
The first network element in the first communication system is an access and mobility management function network element AMF, and the first network element in the first communication system is the performance of the terminal device and the first of the terminals. The above step of determining the target session management function network element based on the subscription information of 3 is
The terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system, and the third subscription information of the terminal corresponds to the session. Data network identification information DNN interoperates with a 4G system. When indicating support, the AMF is at the stage of selecting a session management function network element located at the same location as the target session management network element, and the first communication system is a 5G system. 8. The method of item 8, wherein the second communication system is a 4G system, comprising a selection step.
(Item 10)
The first network element in the first communication system is an access and mobility management function network element AMF, and the first network element in the first communication system is the performance of the terminal device and the first of the terminals. The above step of determining the target session management function network element based on the subscription information of 3 is
The terminal device supports the first and second communication systems, and the third subscription information indicates that the data network identification information DNN of the session does not support interoperability with the 4G system. In this case, the AMF skips the step of selecting the session management function network element arranged at the same location as the target session management network element, and the first communication system is a 5G system. 8. The method of item 8, wherein the second communication system is a 4G system, comprising a skipping step.
(Item 11)
The AMF skips the step of selecting the session management function network element arranged in the same location as the target session management network element. In the above step, the AMF is the target session management network element in the 5G system. The method of item 10, comprising the step of selecting a session management function network element.
(Item 12)
The first network element in the first communication system is the mobility management function network element MME, and the first network element in the first communication system is the performance of the terminal device and the third of the terminal. The above steps to determine the target session management function network element based on the subscription information
The terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system, the third subscription information of the terminal corresponds to the session, and the data network identification information APN corresponds to the interoperability with the 5G system. When indicating support, the MME is at the stage of selecting a session management function network element arranged at the same location as the target session management network element, and the first communication system is a 4G system. 8. The method of item 8, wherein the second communication system is a 5G system, comprising a selection step.
(Item 13)
The first network element in the first communication system is the mobility management function network element MME, and the first network element in the first communication system is the performance of the terminal device and the third of the terminal. The above steps to determine the target session management function network element based on the subscription information
The terminal device supports the first and second communication systems, and the third subscription information indicates that the data network identification information APN for the session does not support interoperability with the 5G system. In this case, the MME skips the step of selecting the session management function network element arranged at the same location as the target session management network element, and the first communication system is a 4G system. 8. The method of item 8, wherein the second communication system is a 5G system, comprising a skipping step.
(Item 14)
The MME skips the step of selecting the session management function network element arranged in the same location as the target session management network element. In the above step, the MME is the target session management network element in the 4G system. The method of item 13, comprising the step of selecting a session management function network element.
(Item 15)
The first network element in the first communication system sends a second message to the target session management function network element, so that the target session management function network element is based on the second message. The stage of determining and transmitting policy control network elements and billing systems
The method according to any one of items 8 to 14, further comprising.
(Item 16)
It is a network element selection device
A receiving unit that is configured to receive a first message transmitted by a terminal device, wherein the first message is a receiving unit that is used to request the establishment of a session.
A processing unit configured to determine a target session management function network element based on the first subscription information and the second subscription information in response to the first message. The subscription information of 1 includes the subscription information of the terminal device in the first communication system, and the second subscription information includes the subscription information of the terminal device in the second communication system. A device with a unit.
(Item 17)
The above processing unit
Item 16. The item 16 is specifically configured to determine the target session management function network element based on the performance of the terminal device, the first subscription information, and the second subscription information. Equipment. (Item 18) The first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the device is an MME.
The above processing unit
The terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system, and both the first subscription information and the second subscription information correspond to the data network identification information of the session. When the subscription information is included, the session management function network element arranged in the same location is specifically configured to be selected as the target session management network element, and the session management performance of the 5G system and the 4G are described. The device according to item 17, wherein the network element having the session management performance of the system is the session management function network element arranged in the same location as described above.
(Item 19)
The first communication system is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the device is an MME.
The above processing unit
The terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, and the second If the subscription information does not include the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, the session management function network element in the 4G system is specifically selected as the target session management network element. Item 4. The apparatus according to item 17.
(Item 20)
The first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the device is an AMF device.
The above processing unit
The terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system, and both the first subscription information and the second subscription information correspond to the data network identification information of the session. When the subscription information is included, the session management function network element arranged in the same location is specifically configured to be selected as the target session management network element, and the session management performance of the 5G system and the 4G are described. The device according to item 17, wherein the network element having the session management performance of the system is the session management function network element arranged in the same location as described above.
(Item 21)
The first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the device is an AMF device.
The above processing unit
The terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system, the first subscription information includes the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, and the second If the subscription information does not include the subscription information corresponding to the data network identification information of the session, the session management function network element in the 5G system is specifically selected as the target session management network element. Item 4. The apparatus according to item 17.
(Item 22)
By sending a second message to the target session management function network element, the target session management function network element is configured to determine the policy control network element and the billing system based on the second message. Sending unit
The apparatus according to any one of items 16 to 21, further comprising.
(Item 23)
It is a network element selection device
A receiving unit that is configured to receive a first message transmitted by a terminal device, wherein the first message is a receiving unit that is used to request the establishment of a session.
It includes a processing unit configured to determine a target session management function network element in response to the first message, based on the performance of the terminal device and the third subscription information of the terminal. ,apparatus.
(Item 24)
In the processing unit, the terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system, and the third subscription information of the terminal corresponds to the session. The data network identification information DNN is 4G. When indicating that it supports interoperation with the system, it is specifically configured to select the session management function network element arranged in the same location as the target session management network element, and the first communication is described above. The device according to item 23, wherein the system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the network element selection device is the access and mobility management function network element AMF in the 5G system.
(Item 25)
In the processing unit, the terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system, the third subscription information is the data network identification information of the session, and the DNN is interoperable with the 4G system. When indicating that the above-mentioned target session management network element is not supported, the first communication system is specifically configured to skip the step of selecting the session management function network element arranged in the same location. 23. The device according to item 23, wherein is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and the network element selection device is an access and mobility management function network element AMF in the 5G system.
(Item 26)
Skip the step of selecting the session management function network element located in the same location as the target session management network element The above step selects the session management function network element in the 5G system as the target session management network element. 25. The apparatus of item 25, comprising a step.
(Item 27)
In the processing unit, the terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system, and the third subscription information of the terminal corresponds to the session. The data network identification information APN is a 5G system. In the case of indicating that the interaction with the above-mentioned first communication system is supported, the session management function network element arranged in the same place is specifically configured to be selected as the target session management network element. 23 is a device according to item 23, wherein is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the network element selection device is a mobility management function network element MME in the 4G system.
(Item 28)
In the processing unit, the terminal device supports the first communication system and the second communication system, the third subscription information is the data network identification information of the session, and the APN is interoperable with the 5G system. When indicating that it is not supported, it is specifically configured to skip the step of selecting the session management function network element arranged in the same location as the target session management network element, and the first communication system is described above. 23 is a device according to item 23, wherein is a 4G system, the second communication system is a 5G system, and the network element selection device is a mobility management function network element MME in the 4G system.
(Item 29)
Skip the step of selecting the session management function network element located in the same location as the target session management network element. The above step selects the session management function network element in the 4G system as the target session management network element. 28. The apparatus of item 28, comprising a step.
(Item 30)
By sending a second message to the target session management function network element, the target session management function network element is configured to determine the policy control network element and the billing system based on the second message. Sending unit
23. The apparatus according to any one of items 23 to 29.
(Item 31)
A computer storage medium, wherein the computer storage medium stores computer software instructions, and when the computer instructions are executed, the method according to any one of items 1 to 7 is executed. ..
(Item 32)
A computer storage medium, wherein the computer storage medium stores computer software instructions, and when the computer instructions are executed, the method according to any one of items 8 to 15 is executed. ..
(Item 33)
A computer program product, wherein the computer program product includes instructions, and when the instructions are executed, the method according to any one of items 1 to 7 is executed.
(Item 34)
A computer program product, wherein the computer program product includes instructions, and when the instructions are executed, the method according to any one of items 8 to 15 is executed.
(Item 35)
A key acquisition device, the device comprising a processor and a transmitter / receiver, such that the processor supports the device in performing the corresponding function of the method according to any one of items 1-7. A key acquisition device configured such that the transmitter / receiver is configured to support communication between the device and another network device.
(Item 36)
A key acquisition device, the device comprising a processor and a transmitter / receiver, such that the processor supports the device in performing the corresponding function of the method according to any one of items 8 to 15. A key acquisition device configured such that the transmitter / receiver is configured to support communication between the device and another network device.
(Item 37)
A key acquisition device, wherein the device is configured to perform the method according to any one of items 1 to 7.
(Item 38)
A key acquisition device, wherein the device is configured to perform the method according to any one of items 8 to 15.

Claims (13)

It is a network element selection method
A first network element in a first communication system is a step of receiving a first message from a terminal device , the first message being used to request the establishment of a session, a receiving step. When,
In response to said first message, said at first communication system first network element, based on the subscription information of the performance and the terminal device of the terminal device, the target session management function network elements The subscription information indicates whether the data network identification information corresponding to the session supports interoperability with a second communication system.
If the subscription information indicates that the data network identification information does not support interoperability with the second communication system, then the first network element determines the target session management function network element. A method comprising skipping the step of selecting a session management function network element co-located as the target session management function network element . The first network element in the first communication system is an access and mobility management function network element (AMF), and the first network element in the first communication system is the performance of the terminal device and the terminal. wherein the step of based on said subscription information of the device, to determine the target session management function network element,
The subscription information, the data network identification information of the session (DNN) if indicating that it does not support interoperability with 4G system, the AMF is, as the target session management function network element, colocated The first communication system is a 5G system and the second communication system is a 4G system, which comprises a step of skipping the step of selecting the session management function network element. Item 1. The method according to Item 1. The AMF skips the step of selecting a session management function network element arranged at the same location as the target session management function network element. In the step, the AMF skips the step of selecting the session management function network element arranged at the same location. The method of claim 2 , comprising selecting a session management function network element in the system. The first network element in the first communication system is a mobility management function network element (MME), and the first network element in the first communication system is the performance of the terminal device and the performance of the terminal device . based on the subscription information, wherein the step of determining the target session management function network element,
The subscription information, if the data network identification information of the session (APN) is indicating that it does not support interoperability with 5G system, the MME, as the target session management function network element, colocated A step of skipping the step of selecting a session management function network element, wherein the first communication system is a 4G system and the second communication system is a 5G system, including a skipping step. Item 1. The method according to Item 1. In the step where the MME skips the step of selecting the session management function network element arranged at the same location as the target session management function network element, the MME skips the step of selecting the session management function network element as the target session management function network element. The method of claim 4 , comprising selecting a session management function network element in the system. The first network element in the first communication system sends a second message to the target session management function network element, so that the target session management function network element is based on the second message. The method of any one of claims 1-5 , further comprising a step of determining and transmitting a policy control network element and a billing system. A network element selection device in the first communication system .
A receiving unit that is configured to receive a first message from a terminal device, wherein the first message is a receiving unit used to request the establishment of a session.
In response to said first message, on the basis of the performance and subscription information of the terminal device of the terminal devices, are configured to determine the target session management function network element, and a processing unit ,
The subscription information indicates whether the data network identification information corresponding to the session supports interoperability with a second communication system.
If the subscription information indicates that the data network identification information does not support interoperability with the second communication system, the processing unit is a co-located session as the target session management function network element. Management Function A device that is configured to skip the step of selecting a network element . The processing unit, the subscription information, the data network identification information of the session (DNN) if indicating that it does not support interoperability with 4G system, as the target session management function network element, in the same location The first communication system is a 5G system, the second communication system is a 4G system, and is specifically configured to skip the step of selecting the arranged session management function network element. The device according to claim 7 , wherein the network element selection device is an access and mobility management function network element (AMF) in the 5G system. Skipping the step of selecting the session management function network element arranged in the same location as the target session management function network element The step skips the step of selecting the session management function network element in the 5G system as the target session management function network element. The device of claim 8 , comprising a step of selection. The processing unit, the subscription information, if the data network identification information of the session (APN) is indicating that it does not support interoperability with 5G system, as the target session management function network element, in the same location The arranged session management function network element is specifically configured to skip the step of selecting, the first communication system is a 4G system, and the second communication system is a 5G system. The device according to claim 7 , wherein the network element selection device is a mobility management function network element (MME) in the 4G system. Skipping the step of selecting the session management function network element arranged in the same location as the target session management function network element The step skips the step of selecting the session management function network element in the 4G system as the target session management function network element. The device of claim 10 , comprising a step of selection. By sending a second message to the target session management function network element, the target session management function network element is configured to determine the policy control network element and the billing system based on the second message. The apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 11 , further comprising a transmission unit. A computer program that, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 6 .